Growing strawberries in a raised bed

I have always grown my strawberries in pots, but after last year's dry summer, I lost a lot.
We are constructing a raised bed, 8ft x 2 and 1ft deep, to be filled with well rotted organic matter and good compost. It will be placed where it gets plenty of sun, but convenient for watering, should we get another dry summer.
a) Has anyone any recommendations as to a mix of plants to extend the fruiting season
b) How many plants would you recommend in a container that size?
All advice gratefully received.

 

I've half answered your query Penny on the Wakey Wakey thread.

At the moment I'm growing Mara des bois ones in pots in my lean to greeenhouse to keep away slugs, snails and woodlice. They are smaller but sweeter and crop for longer. Previously I'd bought a pack of 3 different kinds, Florence, Cambridge and ? to extend the season. I think it was two of each kind as my raised bed then was only about 3 x 2. I probably bought them from T & M or Suttons.